EconomyGeopolitics
SCO Fast-Tracks Plans for New Bank to Rival Western Lenders
The SCO accelerates plans for a development bank to rival the IMF and World Bank, signaling a push to reshape global financial architecture.
—4 min read
Category
Economy
165 articles
Science & TechnologyEconomy
China Releases 51 AI-Energy Scenarios for Power Grid
China releases 51 high-value AI + Energy scenarios at a Shenzhen conference, targeting smart grids, virtual power plants, and computing-power coordination.
—4 min read
Infrastructure & TransportEconomy
China-Laos Railway Reaches 100,000 Passenger Train Trips
The China-Laos Railway has surpassed 100,000 passenger train journeys, carrying 73.38 million passengers since 2021 in a major BRI milestone.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Wang Yi Says Canada Could Double Exports to China
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visits Canada for the first time in a decade, suggesting Ottawa could double exports to China as bilateral relations thaw.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
China Issues RMB 6 Billion Green Sovereign Bonds in HK
China issues RMB 6 billion in green sovereign bonds in Hong Kong, attracting 62.4 billion in subscriptions and reinforcing green finance leadership.
—5 min read
Science & TechnologyEconomy
China's EVs Are Getting Heavier, Posing Industry Challenges
China's new energy vehicles have gained 27.5% in weight since 2020, driven by larger batteries and features, raising safety and infrastructure concerns.
—5 min read
Society & CultureEconomy
Ghost Takeout Crisis: Record Fine Exposes Regulatory Gaps
China's investigation uncovered 67,604 ghost kitchens on major delivery platforms, leading to a record 35.97 billion yuan fine and new food safety rules.
—6 min read
EconomyChina
China Approves Yacht Free Travel for Greater Bay Area
China's State Council approves a landmark yacht free travel scheme for the Greater Bay Area, unlocking marine tourism and a 100-billion-yuan industry.
—4 min read
Society & CultureEconomy
China's Summer Box Office: 53 Films and Bold New Models
China's summer box office season kicks off with 53 films, hit 'Letter to Grandma,' and innovative 'Movie+' models transforming cinemas.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Belgium Passes 2026 Law on Salaries, Pensions and Energy
Belgium's parliament approves the Arizona coalition's programme law with capped wage indexation, pension reform, energy tax changes and flight taxes.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Belgium Approves €60M Tax Credit for Commuters Amid Crisis
Belgium's Parliament approved a temporary tax credit for commuting expenses, part of an €80M energy relief package amid soaring fuel prices.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
Belgium Fuel Prices Drop 10 Cents Per Litre from Friday
Belgian petrol and diesel prices drop over 10 cents per litre from Friday, offering relief at the pump amid high living costs.
—4 min read
EconomyTransport
Belgium Raises Flight Tax: What It Means for Travelers
Belgium increases its flight tax on short and long-haul flights through 2029. Here's how much more you'll pay and what experts say.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
The End of the Barcode: Why 2027 Marks a Retail Revolution
The traditional barcode is being phased out by 2027 in favor of QR codes. Here's how the Sunrise 2027 transition will change shopping.
—5 min read
JusticeEconomy
New Antwerp Prison Empty as Government Pays €2M Monthly Rent
A new 440-cell prison in Antwerp stands empty due to technical issues and staffing shortages, while Belgium pays nearly €2 million monthly in rent.
—5 min read
EnergyEconomy
Wallonia Mandates Solar Panel Disconnection Compensation
Belgium's Walloon region requires grid operators to compensate solar panel owners when systems disconnect due to grid overload, in a landmark policy.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China's AI Boom Drives Record Profits and Tech Surge
China's AI sector drives 24.7% industrial profit growth, sparks optical communication export boom, and ignites a funding frenzy among AI startups.
—5 min read
EconomyPolicy
China Unveils 15th Five-Year Urban Renewal Plan
China issues first urban renewal five-year plan as logistics surge, trade-in policies boost consumption, and economists debate export rebate cuts.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgian Chamber Approves Pension Reform and Centenindex
Belgium's Chamber approves pension bonus-malus reform, centenindex wage cap, and energy support in an overnight legislative session.
—5 min read
EconomyBelgium
Bpost Sees 50,000 Extra Packages Per Day on Holiday Pay
Bpost is processing 50,000 extra packages daily, a 10% surge driven by holiday pay. The company says no delivery delays are expected.
—4 min read
Economy
Bpost CEO: Social Agreement a Step Forward, Work Remains
Bpost CEO Chris Peeters calls new social agreement an important step after weeks of strikes, but warns the company's transformation is far from complete.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Walloons Want Tax Cuts and More Spending, Survey Reveals
The 2026 National Budget Survey reveals 40% of Walloons prioritize tax cuts while demanding more state spending, challenging Belgium's austerity plans.
—4 min read
Economy
China Urged to Cut Export Tax Rebates as Surplus Hits Record
Chinese economists call for targeted cuts to export tax rebates after the trade surplus hit a record $1.2 trillion, sparking debate over export-led growth.
—4 min read
Economy
Zeeman Closing 150 Stores Across Europe, Spares Belgium
Dutch discount retailer Zeeman is closing up to 150 stores across Europe by 2028, but its 270 Belgian stores remain unaffected.
—4 min read
EconomyUnited States
Nearly Half of U.S. Households Couldn't Afford Basics in '24
Brookings report: 45.5% of U.S. households couldn't cover necessities in 2024, as stagnant wages and rising costs deepen the affordability crisis.
—5 min read
Economy
Tomatoes Become the Face of America's Affordability Crisis
Tomato prices have surged 40% as tariffs on Mexican imports, the Iran war, and climate factors create a 'perfect storm' squeezing American consumers.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
PCE Inflation Hits 3.8% in April as Spending Power Erodes
The Fed's preferred PCE inflation gauge rose to 3.8% in April, squeezing households as incomes fall and savings dwindle, complicating rate cut prospects.
—4 min read
EconomyAgriculture
U.S. Cattle Herd at 75-Year Low, Driving Beef Prices Higher
The U.S. cattle herd has fallen to 86.2 million head, the smallest since 1951. Drought, screwworm, and consolidation are driving beef prices higher.
—6 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Swing Voters Factor High Gas Prices Into Midterm Calculus
NPR's Swing Shift project finds swing voters factoring high gas prices into midterm decisions as a new poll shows 63% blame President Trump.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Treasury Prepares $250 Bill Featuring Trump's Portrait
The Treasury Department has prepared designs for a $250 bill with President Trump's portrait, but a 160-year-old law and stalled Congress stand in the way.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China Tech Sector Catches AI Funding Fever
Chinese AI startups, chipmakers and internet platforms are raising billions as a capital frenzy fueled by US tech valuations sweeps through China.
—6 min read
EconomyTechnology
China Industrial Profits Surge on AI Boom, Fastest in 2 Yrs
China's industrial profits surged 24.7% in April, the fastest in over two years, driven by AI demand, semiconductors, and higher oil prices.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
China Financial Power Steady Under 15th Five-Year Plan
China advances financial power construction under the 15th Five-Year Plan with double-digit loan growth and 800 billion yuan in new policy instruments.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
New Quality Productive Forces Power China 15th Plan Economy
From fusion energy to humanoid robots, China's new quality productive forces drive high-quality development in the 15th Five-Year Plan era.
—5 min read
Economy
China Logistics Data: 5.5% Growth Signals Surging Momentum
China's Jan-Apr logistics value reached 121.7 trillion yuan, up 5.5% YoY. High-tech manufacturing and instant retail surge as cross-border networks expand.
—5 min read
EconomyChina
China's Trade-In Policy Drives $28.7 Billion in Spending
China's trade-in policy has benefited 31 million consumers and driven 207 billion yuan in sales as Beijing expands subsidies to smart home and AI products.
—4 min read
DiplomacyEconomy
10th China-South Asia Expo to Open in Kunming June 11-16
The 10th China-South Asia Expo runs June 11-16 in Kunming, featuring 60+ countries, a new Procurement Matching Center, and 800 free booths for South Asia.
—4 min read
Food SafetyEconomy
Shuanghui Apologizes After Pork Antibiotics 37.5x Over Limit
China's top meat processor Shuanghui apologizes after pork tests 37.5 times the legal antibiotic limit, sparking food safety fears and stock sell-off.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
China Industrial Profits Surge 18.2% Led by High Tech
China's industrial profits grew 18.2% in Jan-Apr 2026, led by high-tech manufacturing and electronics as economic transformation accelerates.
—4 min read
InfrastructureEconomy
Pinglu Canal Excavation Complete, Set to Open September 2026
China's Pinglu Canal in Guangxi completes main channel excavation. The 134.2-km waterway, the first canal since 1949, will open in September 2026.
—4 min read
RegulationEconomy
China Cracks Down on 'Involution' in Key Industries
China's market regulator launches an eight-month crackdown on 'involution-style' competition in live streaming and food delivery.
—4 min read
International RelationsEconomy
China-ASEAN Cooperation Delivers Tangible Regional Benefits
China and ASEAN deepen ties with FTA 3.0 upgrade, surging trade, and the China-Laos Railway delivering real benefits to communities.
—5 min read
Real EstateEconomy
China's Second-Home Market Surges in Key Cities
China's second-hand home transactions surged in Q2 2026, with Beijing and Shanghai hitting multi-year records amid government support.
—5 min read
International CooperationEconomy
Chinese Enterprises Drive BRICS Smart Manufacturing Push
At the BRICS forum in Xiamen, Chinese enterprises showcase smart manufacturing and innovation driving cooperation with partner nations.
—5 min read
EconomyChina
China Blends Tourism, Sports and Night Economy for Growth
China expands summer consumption through multi-format integration, blending tourism, sports, and night economy to boost domestic demand.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Chinese AI Models Shift from Free to Value-Focused Strategy
China's AI industry pivots from free services to paid subscriptions as ByteDance's Doubao leads with tiered pricing, signaling market maturation.
—5 min read
EconomyPolicy
All 31 Chinese Provinces Prioritize New Energy in Plans
All 31 Chinese provinces make new energy the top priority in their Five-Year Plans, revealing a nationwide green energy push and strategic differentiation.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgium Votes on Landmark Pension and Indexation Reforms
Belgian parliament votes on centenindex and pension reform after months of delay. The measures will impact wages, benefits, and retirement for millions.
—5 min read
FinanceEconomy
Foreign Investors Hold Over 4 Trillion Yuan in A-Shares
CSRC Vice Chairman Liu Haoling announces foreign investors hold over 4 trillion yuan in A-shares, marking a milestone in China's capital market opening-up.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
Electrabel Pays Record €10.4 Billion Dividend to Engie
Electrabel distributes €10.4 billion to French parent Engie in Belgium's largest-ever profit distribution, raising questions about capital outflows.
—5 min read
SocietyEconomy
Pessimism Spreads Among Belgians as Economic Anxiety Deepens
Nearly 7 in 10 Belgians believe the economy has worsened, a major national survey reveals, with sharp regional divides over government austerity measures.
—4 min read
Economy
Belgian Inflation Hits 4.08% in May as Energy Costs Bite
Belgium's inflation rose to 4.08% in May, driven by surging energy prices linked to the Middle East conflict. Diesel up 33.7%, airline tickets soar 69.1%.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Ghent Ranks 4th in Europe, 10th Globally in Tech Ranking
Ghent jumps to 4th in Europe and 10th worldwide in Dealroom's 2026 tech city ranking, driven by startups, unicorns, and university innovation.
—5 min read
Labor & IndustryEconomy
Thy-Marcinelle Strike Escalates in Charleroi
Strike at Thy-Marcinelle steelworks in Charleroi intensifies as workers block cold-phase access, protesting inadequate severance for 179 threatened jobs.
—4 min read
EconomyConsumer
Fuel Prices in Belgium Set to Drop Significantly on Friday
Belgian fuel prices drop sharply on May 29: petrol down 11.8 cents, diesel down 10.3 cents per liter, driven by US-Iran peace optimism.
—4 min read
EconomyDefense
FN Browning Acquires British Precision Rifle Maker AI
Belgian arms giant FN Browning Group acquires UK-based Accuracy International, bolstering its precision rifle portfolio and UK defence industry.
—4 min read
SocietyEconomy
Six Major Changes Take Effect for Belgians on June 1, 2026
From insurance and health to eco-cheques and rail jobs, six key policy changes come into force for Belgians on June 1, 2026.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
45.5% of U.S. Households Can't Afford Basics, Brookings Says
Brookings report: 45.5% of U.S. households can't afford basics. Stagnant wages, high costs, and new inflation pressures deepen the crisis.
—5 min read
EconomySociety
Food Insecurity in America Surpasses Pandemic-Era Levels
New York Fed data shows 10% of U.S. families now skip meals due to lack of food, surpassing pandemic highs amid rising costs and SNAP cuts.
—5 min read
Economy
U.S. Inflation Hits 3.8%, Fastest Pace in Three Years
The PCE price index rose 3.8% in April, the fastest since May 2023, driven by energy costs from the Iran war and straining household budgets.
—5 min read
HealthEconomy
8% of Americans Uninsured in 2025 as Policy Changes Loom
CDC data shows 8% of Americans lacked health insurance in 2025, but Medicaid cuts and expired ACA subsidies could drive millions more uninsured.
—4 min read
EconomyInfrastructure
Trump Gas Tax Holiday Plan Threatens Infrastructure Funding
Trump's gas tax holiday push could worsen an infrastructure funding crisis as the Highway Trust Fund faces a $17 billion shortfall.
—5 min read
EconomyUnited States
US Jobless Claims Rise to 215,000; Layoffs Low Amid Iran War
Weekly US jobless claims rose to 215,000, but layoffs remain historically low despite economic uncertainty from the Iran war and rising oil prices.
—5 min read
Trade & DiplomacyEconomy
US to Seek Public Comment on Chinese Goods for Tariff Cuts
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer announced a public comment process to determine which Chinese imports qualify for lower tariffs.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
China Revenue Rises as Spending Slows, Profits Surge
China's fiscal revenue rose 6.7% in April while spending fell 3.2%. Industrial profits surged 24.7% on AI and energy demand, signaling a mixed economy.
—5 min read
Real EstateEconomy
China's First-Tier Cities See Housing Market Recovery
Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen show clear signs of housing market recovery as stimulus measures drive price stabilization and surging volumes.
—5 min read
EconomyEurope
Belgium Faces 2.5 Billion Extra EU Payment Each Year
The European Commission's proposed €2 trillion budget could force Belgium to pay an extra €2.5 billion per year, straining its tight national budget.
—5 min read
EconomyLabor
GSK Workers in Belgium Denounce 'Unacceptable' Cuts
Renewed labor tensions at GSK in Belgium as workers denounce reduced severance terms for six employees, calling the situation 'extremely worrying.'
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
China Halts Rare Earth Exports to Japan
China confirms suspension of rare earth exports to Japan, citing nuclear ambitions and remilitarization fears in a major bilateral crisis.
—5 min read
Science & TechnologyEconomy
China's Commercial Space Sector: Key Growth Areas Identified
People's Daily analysis examines where China's commercial space sector must focus for growth: reusable rockets, innovation ecosystems, and policy support.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
Guangdong Launches $14B Strategic Industry Fund
Guangdong launches a 100-billion-yuan strategic industry fund with no fixed term, pioneering long-cycle investment in AI, new energy, and manufacturing.
—5 min read
EconomyBusiness
China Sees 20,000+ New Foreign Firms in Early 2026
China established over 20,000 new foreign-invested enterprises in Jan-Apr 2026, up 6.8% YoY. High-tech FDI surged 20.3% as overall FDI dipped.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
Shenzhen Population Hits 18 Million, Leads China in Growth
Shenzhen's permanent population exceeds 18 million for the first time, with 2025 growth of 259,000 ranking first among Chinese cities.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
China Scraps Fixed Time-of-Use Power Pricing in 9 Provinces
Nine Chinese provinces cancel fixed time-of-use electricity pricing, shifting from government-set rates to market-driven pricing in a landmark reform.
—5 min read
EconomyEnergy
China's Historic Breakthrough in Shale Oil Exploration
China's Shengli Jiyang shale oil zone surpasses 2M tonnes, unlocking reserves international experts deemed commercially unviable.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
OpenAI CEO Admits AI Costing Fewer Jobs Than Feared
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman says AI is displacing fewer jobs than predicted, admitting 'I’m glad I was wrong' about white-collar job losses.
—5 min read
Economy
US Consumer Confidence Sinks as War-Driven Inflation Bites
Consumer confidence fell in May as gas prices topped $4.50/gallon and inflation hit 3.8%. The University of Michigan sentiment index hit a record low.
—5 min read
EconomyHousing
Homes Not Moving: Five US Cities Hit by Steep Price Cuts
Phoenix, Tampa, San Antonio, Denver, and Portland lead US markets in home price cuts as high rates and inflation cool buyer demand.
—4 min read
EconomyTravel
Airline Miles Lose Value as Iran War Drives Up Summer Fares
Rising jet fuel costs from the Iran conflict are reducing the purchasing power of airline reward miles just as summer travel season begins.
—5 min read
SportsEconomy
World Cup Transit Sticker Shock Hits Fans in US Host Cities
Fans attending the 2026 World Cup face high transit costs in US host cities, with $98 train fares in New Jersey and $80 in Massachusetts sparking outrage.
—6 min read
InfrastructureEconomy
China Water Network Accelerates With $28.7B Q1 Investment
China accelerates national water network with 24,231 projects and $28.7B in Q1 2026. Major projects span Qinghai to Zhejiang, driving growth.
—5 min read
EconomyTechnology
China Unveils Six Network Roadmaps for Trillion-Yuan Markets
China's six network roadmaps target 7+ trillion yuan annually across water, power, computing, communication, pipeline, and logistics networks.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
China High-Tech FDI Surges 20.3% in First 4 Months of 2026
China's high-tech FDI grew 20.3% in Jan-Apr 2026, reaching 40.4% of total investment, signaling a shift toward innovation-driven sectors.
—4 min read
AgricultureEconomy
China's Summer Grain Regions Race Rain to Secure Harvest
China's main wheat-producing provinces battle persistent rain to protect the summer grain harvest, deploying thousands of harvesters and drying centers.
—5 min read
EconomyLogistics
China's Cold Chain Logistics Grows Steadily in Q1
China's cold chain logistics demand hit 0.867B tons in Q1 2026, up 4.46%. New energy refrigerated truck sales surged 66.55% as smart storage grows.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgian Municipalities Take Lead on Cadastral Income Reform
Belgian municipalities are bypassing federal inaction to update the 50-year-old cadastral income system, aiming for fairer property taxation.
—4 min read
TourismEconomy
Belgian Coast Records Best Pentecost Weekend in Five Years
The Belgian coast saw 450,000 day tourists and 525,000 overnight stays over Pentecost weekend, the best in five years, boosted by tropical temperatures.
—4 min read
EconomyConsumer
Fuel Prices Force Americans to Cut Back Memorial Day Travel
Rising gas and jet fuel costs, driven by the Iran war, are reshaping Memorial Day travel as Americans opt for shorter trips and closer destinations.
—5 min read
EconomyFood Industry
Pay What You Want: Austin Restaurant Defies Inflation Trend
An Austin restaurant's pay-what-you-will Tuesdays offer a lifeline to diners priced out of dining out as inflation reshapes the restaurant industry.
—5 min read
Economy
Yuan Hits Three-Year High: Where the Currency Is Headed
The Chinese yuan hits a three-year high against the US dollar. Analysts debate the trajectory as Goldman Sachs forecasts 6.5 per dollar.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Chinese AI Giants Race for Capital as Funding Hits $41B
China's AI sector sees a record funding surge as Moonshot AI and StepFun raise over $4.5B in 24 hours, fueling a race for AI dominance.
—5 min read
EconomyTechnology
China's EV Charging Network Hits 21.96M, Surging 47.4% YoY
China's EV charging infrastructure hit 21.96 million units by April 2026, up 47.4% year-on-year, building the world's largest charging network.
—4 min read
DiplomacyEconomy
He Lifeng Urges APEC Unity at 32nd Trade Ministers Meeting
Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng addresses the 32nd APEC Trade Ministers Meeting in Suzhou, calling for cooperation and regional economic integration.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
China Accelerates Data Infrastructure Under Data Element X
China's National Data Administration says Data Element X initiative is accelerating data infrastructure construction and operation across 43 cities.
—4 min read
Economy
China's High-Tech FDI Surges 20.3% in Early 2026
China's high-tech FDI surged 20.3% in early 2026, reaching 116.33 billion yuan, as over 20,000 new foreign-invested enterprises were established.
—5 min read
Economy
China's Logistics Network Hits 630M Parcels, 160M Tons Daily
China's logistics network handles 630M parcels and 160M tons daily, making it the world's largest market. New Five-Year Plan targets 95% completion.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Mahdi Claims €7B Savings Achievable in Belgian Budget Push
CD&V leader Sammy Mahdi challenges Belgian coalition partners with bold budget proposals, claiming €7 billion in savings is achievable.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
Gas Prices Hit 4-Year High as Summer Energy Costs Surge
Gas prices reach $4.55/gal ahead of Memorial Day while electricity bills climb 8.5%. The Iran war drives energy costs to multi-year highs.
—5 min read
EconomyChina
Chinese Yuan Hits Three-Year High Against US Dollar
The Chinese yuan breaks through 6.8 per dollar for the first time in three years, driven by trade surplus and Fed rate-cut expectations.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Chengdu Launches Regular Low-Altitude Urban Logistics Routes
Chengdu launches regular low-altitude urban drone logistics routes, delivering cargo across the city in minutes. A milestone for China's drone economy.
—5 min read
EconomySociety
China's 'Savvy Silvers' Emerge as Key Consumer Force
China's 55-65 'Savvy Silvers' are emerging as a major consumer force, spending on leisure, travel and self-improvement, reshaping the economy.
—5 min read
SocietyEconomy
China Silver Economy Nears 10 Trillion Yuan Elderly Top 323M
China's 60+ population exceeds 323 million as the silver economy nears 10 trillion yuan. Elderly care shifts from supplementary to universal coverage.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
CD&V Chairman Mahdi Fires at Coalition Partners Over Budget
CD&V chairman Sammy Mahdi criticizes coalition partners over the centenindex and outlines a plan to find €7 billion in budget savings.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
Belgian Tax 2026: New Measures That Could Cost You More
Belgium's 2026 tax declaration eliminates 47 codes and slashes deductions, potentially costing households thousands. Here's what changed.
—4 min read
EconomyHousing
Belgian Mortgage Rates Hit 12-Year High: Buy Now or Wait?
Fixed mortgage rates in Belgium reach 4.13%, the highest in 12 years. Expert analysis on whether to buy a home now or wait amid geopolitical turmoil.
—4 min read
BusinessEconomy
Shein Buys Everlane: Fast Fashion Giant Acquires Rival
Chinese fast-fashion giant Shein acquires sustainable brand Everlane in a $100M deal, sparking customer backlash and greenwashing concerns.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
Gas Price Crisis Grips US Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend
National gas prices hit $4.55/gallon as Iran war disrupts oil supplies, California battles Chevron, and 45M Americans face costly holiday travel.
—6 min read
EconomyEnergy
Summer Electric Bills Sizzle as Cost of Cooling Climbs
Americans face soaring summer electric bills as rising temperatures and higher energy prices drive cooling costs up 8.5%, straining household budgets.
—5 min read
EconomySociety
China's Silver Economy Nears 10 Trillion Yuan in Aging Boom
China's silver economy approaches 10 trillion yuan as the 60+ population exceeds 323 million, marking a major shift to universal elderly care.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
AI Drives Two-Way Shift in China's Labor Market, Survey
A new Zhaopin survey shows AI is creating and destroying jobs in China simultaneously, with AI hiring surging 12x while vulnerable roles shrink.
—6 min read
EconomyTrade
China Overtakes US as Germany's Top Investment Source
Chinese companies launched 228 investment projects in Germany in 2025, surpassing the US for the first time since 2017, a new GTAI report shows.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
China State Council Advances Unified Market, PBOC Law Reform
Premier Li Qiang chairs State Council meeting advancing unified national market, approving emergency system plan, and discussing PBOC law revision.
—4 min read
TransportationEconomy
China Civil Aviation Sets New Record with 61M Passengers
China's civil aviation sector carried 61.2 million passengers in April 2026, a new monthly record, driven by strong international travel growth of 5.8%.
—3 min read
SocietyEconomy
Belgium Food Aid Crisis: 560,000 Rely on Parcels, Budget Cut
Food aid in Belgium hits historic highs with 560,000 beneficiaries, up 251% in 30 years. Budget cuts and unemployment reform deepen the crisis.
—4 min read
Economy
Middle East War Tightens Credit Squeeze on Belgian Firms
The Middle East conflict drives up borrowing costs for Belgian firms as credit tightens, inflation hits 4%, and growth forecasts are cut.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgium Rejects Social Partners' Wage Indexation Plan
Belgium's majority coalition rejects the social partners' alternative wage indexation plan, maintaining the government's limited indexation reform.
—4 min read
EconomyLegislation
Belgium Must Overhaul Sales Law After Landmark EU Ruling
Belgian Council of State strikes down sales law as incompatible with EU directive, forcing a major legislative overhaul and ending old restrictions.
—4 min read
InfrastructureEconomy
China Unveils $970B 'Six Networks' Infrastructure Mega-Plan
China's NDRC announces 'six networks' infrastructure plan with over 7 trillion yuan annual investment to boost economy and drive digital transformation.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Kevin Warsh Takes Charge of Fed Amid Rising Inflation Threat
Kevin Warsh was sworn in as Fed chair on May 22, inheriting an economy with 3.8% inflation, a divided FOMC, and pressure from Trump to cut rates.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Trump Eases Refrigerant Rule to Address Grocery Costs
Trump loosens federal refrigerant regulations to lower food prices, delaying Biden-era HFC restrictions amid 3.8% inflation and rising grocery costs.
—5 min read
EconomyEnergy
Gasoline Hits €2/L in Belgium as Iran Conflict Drives Costs
Gasoline prices in Belgium surpass €2 per liter for the first time since 2022. Experts analyze the Iran conflict's impact and what comes next.
—4 min read
LaborEconomy
Ikea Hognoul picketed after union delegate dismissal
Workers picket Ikea Hognoul after a union delegate's dismissal, escalating long-running labor tensions at the Swedish retailer's Belgian operations.
—3 min read
LifestyleEconomy
Walloons Lead Belgium in Organic Food, New Study Shows
Walloons spend €147 per capita on organic food, the highest in Belgium. But while consumption grows, organic production declines for a third year.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Belgium's Triple Shock: Deficit, Indexation, and Sales Law
Belgium's deficit stabilizes at 5.2% as parliament votes on wage indexation caps and a court ruling upends the nation's sales period system.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
NYC Faces 50% Chance of AI-Driven Job Losses, Report Warns
NYC Comptroller Mark Levine warns thousands of NYC jobs could be lost to AI, urging Mayor Mamdani to build a $13.5B rainy day fund.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Pa. Swing Districts Weigh Rising Costs as Midterms Approach
Voters in Pennsylvania's 7th and 8th districts express deep frustration over rising costs ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Trump Eases Refrigerant Rules in Push to Lower Grocery Costs
President Trump rolls back Biden-era EPA refrigerant rules, claiming $2.4B in savings. Experts question whether grocery prices will actually fall.
—4 min read
Real EstateEconomy
Single Gen Z Women Outpace Men in Homeownership Amid Slump
Single Gen Z women buy homes at nearly double the rate of Gen Z men, even as first-time buyers hit a record low. Experts cite education and independence.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgium Faces Twin Budget Crises as Austerity Pressures Rise
Walloon Minister-President Dolimont demands €2B in new cuts while federal coalition faces centenindex vote and €7B budget gap.
—5 min read
Economy
Belgian Fuel Prices Hit Record High as Reserves Dwindle
Belgian gasoline tops €2 per liter for first time since 2022 as Strait of Hormuz blockade depletes global oil reserves, experts warn.
—4 min read
LaborEconomy
Brussels Home Help Workers Protest Service Voucher Crisis
Home help workers protest in Brussels as Belgium's service voucher system faces a deepening crisis, with up to 735 jobs threatened by regulatory changes.
—5 min read
EconomyTechnology
Ghent Leads Flemish Job Creation with €61B Startup Ecosystem
Ghent outpaces all Flemish cities in job creation, driven by a €61 billion startup ecosystem and foreign investment that generated 1,800 new jobs.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Oregon Voters Reject Gas Tax Hike Amid Iran War Fuel Crisis
Oregon voters rejected Measure 120, a Democratic-backed gas tax increase, by an 82% margin as the Iran war drives fuel prices to $5.34 per gallon.
—5 min read
EconomyFinance
Bond Market Rumbles Again as Yields Hit Multi-Year Highs
Treasury yields are surging to multi-year highs, sending warning signals for stocks, the Trump administration, and global markets.
—5 min read
EconomyTrade
Chinese FDI in Europe Hits 7-Year High Despite Tensions
Chinese FDI in Europe surged to €16.8 billion in 2025, a 67% increase, driven by M&A and record greenfield investment in the EV supply chain.
—5 min read
Health & MedicalEconomy
China Expands Coronary Stent Procurement, Slashing Costs
China renews coronary stent procurement with 4,468 hospitals, expanding access to life-saving cardiac care at reduced prices.
—4 min read
EconomyTrade
China Briefs on Preliminary US Trade Consultation Results
China's Commerce Ministry details eight areas of progress from US trade talks, including tariffs, agriculture, Boeing aircraft, and rare earths.
—4 min read
EconomyTrade
China Rare Earth Magnet Supply to Japan Slows
China's rare earth magnet exports to Japan show only a weak rebound in April, as Japanese manufacturers warn of severe supply disruptions.
—5 min read
EconomyFinance
China Vows Zero Tolerance for Listed Company Financial Fraud
China's Ministry of Public Security declares zero tolerance for financial fraud by listed companies, targeting executives and intermediaries.
—5 min read
EconomyTechnology
Yangtze Memory Group Files for A-Share IPO in Landmark Move
China's leading NAND flash maker Yangtze Memory Technology Group files for A-share IPO, a milestone in semiconductor self-sufficiency amid U.S. sanctions.
—6 min read
EconomyTourism
China Launches 'Tax Refund 2.0' to Boost Foreign Tourism
China launches Tax Refund 2.0 with 8 measures to simplify tax refunds for foreign tourists, including paperless processing and mutual recognition.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
China's Fiscal Revenue Grows 3.5% in First Four Months
China's fiscal revenue rose 3.5% year-on-year in Jan-Apr 2026, accelerating from Q1, as tax growth and front-loaded spending signal economic recovery.
—3 min read
EconomyReal Estate
Belgian Mortgage Rates Hit 12-Year High, Adding €30K to Cost
Belgian mortgage rates hit 4.13%, a 12-year high, adding €30,000 in extra interest for homebuyers. Geopolitical tensions and ECB policy drive the surge.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
Stellantis to Build Chinese Cars in Europe in Landmark Deal
Stellantis signs deals to manufacture Chinese Voyah EVs in France and explore US collaboration with JLR, marking a strategic shift.
—5 min read
EconomyConsumer
Gas Prices Surge Past $4.80 Ahead of Summer Travel Season
Gas prices are surging past $4.80 per gallon ahead of summer travel, driven by the Iran war and Strait of Hormuz closure. Consumers face higher costs.
—4 min read
EconomyBusiness
Target Sales Surge, Schlitz Ends, Teen Jobs Hit Record Low
Target posts biggest sales jump in 4 years, Schlitz beer ends after 177 years, and teen summer jobs hit record lows in a complex U.S. economy.
—5 min read
EconomyBusiness
2026 CIFTIS Draws 223 Exhibitors, Adds WIPO as Co-Organizer
The 2026 China International Fair for Trade in Services announces 223 enterprises, Norway as guest of honor, and WIPO as co-organizer ahead of September.
—4 min read
HousingEconomy
Gen Z Women Outpace Men in Homeownership, New Data Shows
Single Gen Z women are buying homes at nearly double the rate of Gen Z men, according to new NAR data, bucking broader declines in first-time homebuying.
—4 min read
EconomyLabor
Air Liquide Workers Strike in Seraing Over Job Cuts
Workers at Air Liquide's Seraing site strike over job cuts as unions reject severance proposals and demand better conditions for 61 affected employees.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Brussels Voucher Crisis: 735 Jobs at Risk as Ministers Clash
Up to 735 jobs at risk in Brussels' service voucher sector as a 2024 decree creates legal incompatibility, sparking political blame.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
Record Belgians Use Pass-Through Gifts to Avoid Tax
A record 1,251 Flemish families used doorgeefschenking in 2025, transferring €398 million tax-free. How pass-through gifts work and the risks to watch for.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Walloon Government Breaks Taboos in €2B Austerity Push
Wallonia's MR-Engagés coalition government announces €2 billion in new austerity measures, breaking political taboos and straining coalition unity.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
Belgium Capital Gains Tax: Opt-In or Opt-Out Deadline Looms
Belgian investors face a May 31 deadline to choose between bank-led capital gains tax withholding or self-declaration. Here is what you need to know.
—5 min read
EconomyAutomotive
Stellantis Launches Affordable E-Car Project for Europe
Stellantis announces E-Car project to produce small, affordable EVs starting in 2028 at its Pomigliano plant in Italy, targeting the European market.
—4 min read
EconomyLabor
Flemish Workers Earned €2,895 Monthly, Gender Gap Narrows
Statistics Flanders data shows the average Flemish worker earned €2,895 net per month in 2024, with the gender pay gap narrowing to €371.
—4 min read
International PoliticsEconomy
Netherlands Revives Push to Tap Frozen Russian Assets
The Netherlands seeks EU support to use €200B in frozen Russian assets for Ukraine, reopening a bitter debate with Belgium over legal and financial risks.
—5 min read
EconomyTaxation
Taboo Falls: Belgian Cities Review Cadastral Income Values
More Belgian cities review decades-old cadastral income values, breaking a political taboo. Leuven leads with a plan to reassess thousands of properties.
—5 min read
EconomyEnergy
Belgian Gas Reserves at Critical Low Ahead of Winter
Belgium's gas storage is only 23.75% full, raising energy security concerns and potential price hikes for consumers ahead of the 2026-2027 winter.
—4 min read
EconomyLabor
Highly Qualified Youth Struggle to Find Jobs in Belgium
Despite rising education levels, highly qualified young Belgians face growing job market difficulties as employers reject overqualified candidates.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Belgian Unions and Employers Unite on Wage Indexation Cap
Belgian unions and employers jointly urge the government to scrap plans to cap wage indexation ahead of a critical vote.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Fermette Tax Debate: Who Will Pay for Belgium's Rural Levy?
Belgium's proposed fermette tax on rural property conversions sparks coalition rift over farmland preservation and housing.
—4 min read
Economy
Belgian Supermarket Prices Fall Despite Surging Inflation
Supermarket prices in Belgium are falling as inflation surges to 4.01%. An economist warns the situation is abnormal and predicts a price shock.
—5 min read
EconomyHousing
Single Tenants in Belgium Spend 55% of Income on Housing
Single tenants in Belgium now spend 55% of income on housing, nearly double the affordability threshold. New data reveals a deepening crisis.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Walloon Service Voucher System Set for Major Reform
Wallonia prepares to reform its titres-services system as Minister Jeholet warns of financial strain, labor shortages, and risk of undeclared work.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
Diesel Prices in Belgium Drop to €2.116 Starting Saturday
Belgian diesel prices fall by 6.2 euro cents to €2.116 per liter starting May 16, offering modest relief after weeks of war-driven increases.
—3 min read